Steve Jobs takes medical leave of absence

Steve Jobs has been given another leave of absence for medical reasons by the Apple Board, again leaving Tim Cook to man the company. According to an email sent today to all Apple employees, Jobs "will continue as CEO and be involved in major strategic decisions for the company."

"I love Apple so much" Jobs' email continues, "and hope to be back as soon as I can." Exact details of the medical reasons behind Jobs' leave of absence have not been disclosed, and the Apple CEO requests privacy moving forward.

Jobs revealed he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2004, which resulted in surgery in July 2004 and then a transplant in 2009. The CEO took a six month leave of absence in 2009.

Apple Media Advisory

Apple CEO Steve Jobs today sent the following email to all Apple employees:

Team,

At my request, the board of directors has granted me a medical leave of absence so I can focus on my health. I will continue as CEO and be involved in major strategic decisions for the company.

I have asked Tim Cook to be responsible for all of Apple’s day to day operations. I have great confidence that Tim and the rest of the executive management team will do a terrific job executing the exciting plans we have in place for 2011.

I love Apple so much and hope to be back as soon as I can. In the meantime, my family and I would deeply appreciate respect for our privacy.